Courage, learning from the Lion

 I've been reflecting upon the character of the Cowardly lion in the movie The Wizard of Oz & feeling a bit like him.  It seems like he covered up alot of his imperfections with humor.  I do that.  It seems like he cowers at little things & jumps at his own shadow.  I do that too.  But he also had it in him when push comes to shove. I hope I do that  At the end of the movie,  he learns that he had the courage he had been seeking as he journeyed with Dorothy & the other "seeking" characters.  It wasn't the "medal" that gave him courage,  but the love in his heart for the others.  He had it in him the whole time.

Courage, learns the "Cowardly Lion"  is something without which we can have no real self esteem, pride or power, and must ultimately come from within rather than without. He is so guilt-ridden and ashamed of his own fear, anxiety and perceived cowardice that he cannot recognize his innate courage as he bravely accompanies Dorothy and Toto to see the Wizard of Oz. As he is finally wisely counseled by the Wizard, fear, fleeing and inaction is not necessarily to be equated with cowardice. For, as the saying goes, "Discretion can often be the better part of valor."  Sometimes it takes more courage to tactically back away from a confrontation than to mindlessly attack. To stand down rather than further escalate a treacherous crisis. Part of wisdom is knowing when to do which. To be able to consciously pick and choose our battles rather than unconsciously or impulsively reacting. And a major part of wisdom is knowing where true wisdom lies & where to get it.  And that's from God who gives generously (James 1:5)

I choose courage

Birthday blog 2015

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This picture is what held me back during the 31 day challenge.  I had in my plans that since I had put a picture of my birthday cake during the last challenge,  I wanted to carry it forward & make a consistent blog on birthday.  I don't remember fully what I was going to say,  but I got caught up in the details of perfectionism & couldn't get past the obstacle of not having things go MY way.  And so,  I just dropped it,  ignored it & let drop, what I thought was the perfect idea for the 31 day challenge.  It makes me sad a bit.  But I think I'm going to put the idea on the shelf,  continue to look at it,  mull over the "dailys" & pick it up & do it again come October.  This time,  I'll be ready & have the pictures stored in my cache.  I'm sure that something else will keep me from it,  but maybe because my 2016 word is COURAGE that I'll be battle-ready to overcome the obstacles.  I feel like I'm doing so well by finishing this draft & posting it today because it won't be perfect.  It won't be how I had planned.  But it means that I'm letting that go.  It means I'm completing this task & starting again.  It means I've dusted myself off from falling (or my perceived failing) & moving forward.  I am starting to see how this word does fit with my other two.  I'm getting excited about blogging again.  YIPEE!!!

My 2016 word: COURAGE

I've been praying for my word since the 31 day challenge & this verse kept coming to my mind.  It didn't really fit my other words... MOVE... FORWARD.... but it's what God has laid on my heart & so,  Courage it is.  Oh my,  just by knowing this is the word,  I feel a bit fearful for what this year may have in store.  I pray that I will have the strength to make the courageous choices.  Lord,  thank you for this word.  Thank you that I do not have to be afraid or discouraged.  Most of all THANK YOU that YOU will be with me wherever I go.